An affirmation is a thought or statement that affirms what is true or will be true shortly. Many people repeat affirmations to themselves to help them change inaccurate beliefs they have adopted through misinformation or misinterpretation of experiences.

Since our beliefs create our reality, taking responsibility to manage our thoughts and words determines our ability to cope with what’s happening in any given moment, and impacts what we experience in the future.

Affirmations are most powerful when stated positively, in the first person, are brief and to the point, and are repeated often. Just like with negative statements, when said with emotion and conviction, their power increases substantially.

Earl Nightingale said, “We become what we think about all day long.” If this is true, it would be wise to follow the wisdom of the knight advising Indiana Jones in “The Last Crusade.” When faced with picking from a host of chalices the one that would determine if he would live or die, he was advised, “Choose wisely.”

Just as Indiana’s choice determined his fate, so do our choices determine ours.

We can create our own affirmations at any time to affirm what we want to manifest in our life. If you would feel supported by a few suggestions to start with, borrow from my list below.

Here is an affirmation for every day of the month. Feel free to cut them out or copy and put it on your refrigerator or mirror for daily reminders. Practice saying them to yourself or out loud with a smile on your face and hope in your heart. You do not have to believe affirmations from the beginning. As you notice your statements turn out to be true over time, your faith will come! Start with the ones that attract you most, and enjoy the adventure.

1. Everything’s going perfectly.

2. I live in an abundant universe. I always have everything I need.

3. My thoughts are loving and positive.

4. Good things come to me easily.

5. I’m always in the right place at the right time.

6. I congratulate myself often.

7. I forgive myself, knowing I always do the best I can at the time.

8. I love getting there as much as being there.

9. Everything’s right on schedule.

10. I have all the money I need and want.

11. I focus on what I love and thus draw it to me.

12. I spend quiet, reflective time. I hear my inner guidance.

13. I find the lesson in every experience.

14. I am a special and unique person.

15. I let God love others through me every day.

16. I let go easily, trusting that nothing leaves my life unless something better is coming.

17. I change the world around me by changing myself.

18. I give generously to myself.

19. I love and appreciate myself just as I am.

20. The more I love myself, the more love I have available to give others.

21. My energy is focused and directed toward my goals.

22. I am relaxed and centered. I have plenty of time for everything.

23. All things are now working together for good in my life.

24. I’m beautiful and loveable however I’m feeling.

25. It’s good to express my feelings. I now give myself permission to express my feelings.

26. I’m glad I was born and I love being alive.

27. I am now being guided to the perfect solution to this problem.

28. Divine love is guiding me this very moment.

29. I am a precious child of God.

30. God’s love and peace shine through me.

31. I have abundance in every area of my life.

As we choose our thoughts, we create our life. Enjoy!

David Larson, M.S., C.P.C.C., is a licensed psychologist and life coach. He is the founder of the Institute For Wellness. His column appears on alternate Sundays. He can be contacted at (507) 373-7913, or at his website, www.callthecoach.com.